Sky Is Ready For 3D TV’s

Skyhas announced that its HD boxes, which are able to broadcast in 3D, will be compatible with all the forthcoming 3DTV sets showcased by LG, Samsung, Sony and Panasonic at the CES 2010 event in Las Vegas.

–BSkyB (Sky) today confirmed that its forthcoming Sky 3D TV service, which is to launch later this year, will be compatible with a wide range of 3D Ready TVs being launched in the UK and Ireland during 2010.

At this week’s CES, LG, Panasonic, Samsung and Sony will all announce an intention to introduce ‘3D Ready’ TVs this year, and Sky’s 3D service will be compatible with all of their respective 3D TV products.
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So that’s 1.6 million customers in the UK and Ireland who have Sky’s HD boxes and will be capable of watching programming in 3D as soon as they get a 3D capable telly. Presumably Sky will also offer the 3D service to its many other customers (8 million) who haven’t yet upgraded to an HD box from a standard one. The new 3D ready TVs will enable Sky+HD customers to watch both high definition (HD) and 3D services from the same TV set.

The Sky press release contains quotes from them, LG Electronics UK, Panasonic, Samsung and Sony… which is an impressive effort to unite the 3D TV manufacturers in support of Sky’s 3D channel, due to launch later in 2010.

–Brian Lenz, Sky’s Director of Product Design & TV Product Development, comments: “Our HD customers already have a 3D capable set-top box, so if they are interested in experiencing TV in a third dimension, the good news is that they’ll have a range of 3D Ready TVs to choose from. This is a great example of Sky and TV manufacturers taking the initiative to ensure there is no confusion over formats. By working together with set manufacturers, we want to provide a hassle free way for consumers to enjoy 3D TV.”

Stephen Gater, Head of Marketing Home Entertainment, LG Electronics UK, adds: “No one can escape the buzz and excitement around 3D. We’re witnessing the start of dramatic change in how we view TV – the dawn of a new dimension. This year will see LG’s first 3D Ready TVs hit the market – and through Sky’s clear commitment to 3D broadcasting, 3D in the home is set to become a reality. Here at LG we’re really looking forward to being a key player in driving the evolution of this technology and giving families a more dramatic, immersive home entertainment experience.”

Andrew Denham, Marketing Director, Panasonic, adds: “Panasonic is delighted to support the introduction of Sky’s 3D TV service in 2010 with a range of compatible FULL HD 3D VIERA Plasma Televisions incorporating high precision active shutter glasses for an unparalleled viewing experience. Plasma technologies have excellent video response which delivers an immersive, movie-theatre-like experience where viewers can feel as if they were part of the action.’’

Rob Shaw, General Manager CTV & HP, adds: “3D TV is a key focus for Samsung and we are committed to the continued delivery of this technology to homes in the UK. Samsung launched its first 3D Plasma TV in 2008 and has continued to innovate and develop this cutting edge technology. In 2010 we will offer 3D ready capability in all our TV screen technologies, including LED, LCD & PDP. Our televisions offer incredible picture quality and choice, and coupled with the forthcoming Sky 3D TV service, Samsung customers can look forward to a truly immersive viewing experience.”

Yoshihisa (Bob) Ishida, President of Home Entertainment Business Group, SVP, Sony Corporation, adds: “We are excited to have Sky’s 3D TV service available for users of 3D compatible BRAVIA LCD TVs in UK and in Ireland. To grow the 3D home entertainment market it’s imperative that the industry offers consumers as much attractive 3D content as possible.”
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